Illuminated disconnecting handle for use with CDM

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

0001Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

0002Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

0003The present invention relates to electrical circuit disconnecting means (CDM) for mounting in cabinets and having a forwardly-extending, rotary disconnect that engages a handle on a cabinet door when the cabinet door is closed, and in particular, to an improvement in such CDM that provide visual indications of assembly states outside the cabinet as well as provide auxiliary contacts within the cabinet that are controllable irrespective of the position of the door.

0004Hereinafter, unless indicated otherwise and in order to simplify this explanation, the present invention will be described in the context of a breaker assembly that includes a circuit breaker. Nevertheless, it should be appreciated that the concepts described herein are also applicable to other types of CDM including fusible disconnects, non-fused disconnects, etc.

0005Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, a standard breaker assembly <b>10</b> of the prior art includes several components mounted within a cabinet <b>12</b> including a door <b>20</b> and several components mounted to the door <b>20</b>. In the illustrated example, the components within the cabinet include a circuit breaker <b>16</b>, a power contactor <b>18</b> and a disconnector or disconnect means <b>33</b>. Circuit breaker <b>16</b> is a three phase breaker including three switches <b>25</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>58</b> as well as an auxiliary switch <b>29</b>.

0006Contactor <b>18</b> includes three power contacts <b>56</b>, <b>50</b> and <b>42</b>, a relay coil <b>44</b> and two control or auxiliary contacts <b>51</b> and <b>54</b>. Contacts <b>56</b>, <b>50</b>, <b>42</b> and <b>54</b> are normally open while contact <b>51</b> is normally closed.

0007Three phase high voltage power is provided to breaker <b>16</b>, a separate phase provided to each of switches <b>25</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>58</b>. Similarly single phase low voltage power is provided to switch <b>29</b> as well as to each of auxiliary contacts <b>51</b> and <b>54</b>. Each of switches <b>25</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>58</b> is linked in series with a separate one of power contacts <b>56</b>, <b>50</b> and <b>42</b> while auxiliary switch <b>29</b> is linked in series with coil <b>44</b>. The output of each power contact <b>56</b>, <b>50</b> and <b>42</b> feeds a different phase of a three phase load (e.g., a motor). Each of power contacts <b>56</b>, <b>50</b> and <b>42</b> as well as auxiliary contacts <b>51</b> and <b>54</b> is controlled by relay coil <b>44</b> such that, when coil <b>44</b> is de-energized, the contacts assume their normal condition and, when coil <b>44</b> is energized, the contacts transition to their exited states (i.e., normally open contacts close and normally closed contacts open).

0008In operation, breaker <b>16</b> is automatically controlled as a function of system operating parameters to either close switches <b>25</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>58</b> thereby providing power to contactor <b>18</b> and to close switch <b>29</b> thereby exciting coil <b>44</b> and in turn transitioning contacts <b>56</b>, <b>50</b>, <b>42</b>, <b>51</b> and <b>534</b> or to open switches <b>25</b>, <b>26</b>, <b>58</b> and <b>29</b> thereby cutting off power to contactor <b>18</b> and de-energizing coil <b>44</b>.

0009Referring still to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, components in the illustrated example that are mounted to cabinet door <b>20</b> include a handle member or handle <b>24</b> and “On” and “Off” lights <b>60</b> and <b>22</b>, respectively. On light <b>60</b> is linked to auxiliary contact <b>54</b> and lights up when contact <b>54</b> is closed. Similarly, light <b>22</b> is linked to contact <b>51</b> and lights up when contact <b>51</b> is closed.

0010Manual disconnector <b>33</b> is a mechanical assembly that links to handle <b>24</b> and that can be used to manually open the switches in breaker <b>16</b>. To this end, referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>, a shaft <b>30</b> extends from breaker <b>16</b> toward door <b>20</b> and is rotatable about its axis of extension to electrically open and close breaker switches <b>25</b>, <b>26</b>, <b>58</b> and <b>29</b>.

0011Handle <b>24</b> is configured to engage the distal end <b>31</b> of shaft <b>30</b>. In particular, a pair of cylindrical locking pins <b>34</b> extends horizontally outwardly from either side of the distal end <b>31</b> of shaft <b>30</b>. An extension member <b>32</b> extends from the rear side of handle <b>24</b> through an opening in door <b>20</b>, forms a corresponding keyhole <b>36</b> that faces into cabinet <b>12</b> and includes a first horizontally extending slot <b>38</b> sized to receive locking pins <b>34</b>. Key hole <b>36</b> further includes a second vertically extending slot <b>40</b> that intersects with slot <b>38</b> and is sized to receive the outer end <b>31</b> of shaft <b>30</b>.

0012During operation, when door <b>20</b> is closed, shaft <b>30</b> and corresponding locking pins <b>34</b> are inserted into keyhole <b>36</b> of extension member <b>32</b>. Handle <b>24</b> and member <b>32</b> are subsequently rotated counterclockwise along the direction of arrow A, which causes keyhole <b>36</b> to correspondingly rotate shaft <b>30</b> counterclockwise in the direction of arrow B. Here, rotation in the direction of arrow B closes the breaker switches while rotation in the opposite direction manually opens the switches. As handle <b>24</b> is rotated in the direction of arrow A, a door latch (not illustrated) locks door <b>20</b> in a closed position. Accordingly, in order to subsequently open door <b>20</b>, handle <b>24</b> is rotated clockwise to unlock door <b>20</b> and automatically rotate shaft <b>30</b> to open the breaker switches and cut off power to the load. Thus, a user is therefore advantageously unable to access the interior of cabinet <b>10</b> without first disconnecting the power contactor <b>18</b> from the power source via handle <b>24</b>.

0013Here it should be appreciated that the breaker system described above is simplified and is only exemplary and that many other more complex breaker systems exist. For instance, in some cases the breaker <b>16</b> may includes many more switches and/or may feed additional contactors or other relay components. As another instance, additional auxiliary contacts may be provided as well as additional lights to indicate other system and component transitional states.

0014Unfortunately, while the above described assembly facilitates relatively safe breaker operation, the assembly has several shortcomings. First, when assembly components fail, it is relatively difficult to determine the cause of failure using the above described assembly. To this end, referring still to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>, assume that attempts to provide power from the supply lines to the load through cabinet <b>12</b> have failed. To identify the cause of failure, with the cabinet door closed, a system operator may attempt transitioning the assembly components and listen for audible tell tale signs of what is going on inside the cabinet. Unfortunately this solution is not very useful as audible noise from the closed cabinet is often difficult to ascribe to the various components mounted therein when the door is closed.

0015Another solution for determining the source of failure is to open up the cabinet door <b>20</b> and visually inspect the components inside the cabinet <b>12</b>. Consistent with the description above, to open door <b>20</b>, a system operator turns handle <b>24</b> and disconnector <b>33</b> to the off position thereby cutting power to contactor <b>18</b> and to coil <b>44</b>. Thereafter, the operator opens door <b>20</b> to observe and inspect the components mounted in cabinet <b>12</b>. While some failures result in easily observable damage to components, in many cases failures do not cause visually recognizable damage. For instance, in some cases normally open power contactor contacts may stick or fuse closed and the fused contacts may not be positioned in any easy to observe orientation or, the source of the sticking may not be readily visually observable. In other cases additional relay contacts may be stuck in abnormal transitional states. In still other cases one or more of the lights (e.g., <b>60</b>, <b>22</b>, etc.) used to indicate handle and system states may be burnt out.

0016Still one other solution for identifying the source of failure is to cause the cabinet mounted components to transition between states while the cabinet door is open. Thus, for instance, referring again to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, with door <b>20</b> open, a system operator may use a pliers or the like to manually rotate shaft <b>30</b> into the On state wherein switches <b>25</b>, <b>26</b>, <b>58</b> and <b>29</b> are closed at which time coil <b>44</b> should excite and transition contacts <b>56</b>, <b>50</b>, <b>42</b>, <b>51</b> and <b>54</b>. When contactor <b>18</b> transitions between states, a noise can typically be heard (e.g., “ker klunk”) which is recognizable as a state transition. Thereafter the user can transition the breaker again by turning the shaft in the opposite direction to the Off position. While processes that provide power to power contactors and to the power contactor coil while the cabinet door is open are known, clearly these processes are relatively hazardous due to power flow and therefore should be avoided whenever possible.

0017Second, the assembly described above requires many parts, requires a good deal of time and labor to configure and therefore is relatively expensive. For instance, three separate holes have to be formed in door <b>20</b> to mount handle <b>24</b> and lights <b>60</b> and <b>22</b> and then each of those components have to be separately mounted. In many cases the mounting structure for each of the components includes several screws or the like. Exacerbating matters, many breaker assemblies will include several additional lights and control tools such as buttons, knobs, etc, each of the control tools requiring its own door hole or holes to accommodate mounting assemblies. As another instance, after lights are mounted to door <b>20</b>, wiring has to be run form the lights to the associated auxiliary contacts and power source which increases configuration costs and time considerably.

0018Third, in most cases breaker assemblies cannot be easily modified to alter assembly functionality. Thus, for instance, where a system operator wants to modify the auxiliary contact logic so that light <b>60</b> marked in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> as “On” instead illuminates when the handle is in a tripped position, the operator has to rewire light <b>60</b> to other system components and, in fact, may also have to add additional components (e.g., another relay) to the assembly.

0019Fourth, when separate components are provided on door <b>20</b> to facilitate control and to indicate assembly states, the front face of the door becomes excessively crowded and cumbersome to use. This is particularly true in cases where the number of status or state lights is appreciable.

0020Thus, a need exists for a simple, easy to configure, aesthetically pleasing, relatively inexpensive handle assembly that eases the task of diagnosing the health of breaker components.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

0021It has been recognized that a handle assembly may be provided for interacting with a circuit disconnect means where the handle assembly includes auxiliary contacts that are activated by the handle assembly movement itself and independently of the state of the disconnect means. Here, the handle mounted auxiliary contacts can be used to control and test control circuitry within the cabinet with the cabinet door open or closed by placing one or more of the handle controlled contacts in control circuits. In addition, the auxiliary contacts can be linked to lights that reside on the external surface of a cabinet door so that contact state can be visually identified. Moreover, the contacts can be used as trip indication contacts (e.g., linked to trip lights), on/off status contacts (e.g., linked to on/off lights), etc.

0022It has also been recognized that one or more lights can be provided as integral parts of a handle assembly thereby reducing the costs associated with assemblies that require both a handle and one or more lights as well as reducing the amount of labor required to assemble the assembly. In at least some embodiments, where lights are provided as part of the handle assembly, electricity can be provided to the lights through the same door opening through which the handle extends to link to the disconnect means.

0023Moreover, it has been recognized that both lights and auxiliary contacts can be provided as part of a disconnect handle assembly and additional functionality can be provided. For instance, the contacts may be linked in series with the lights to indicate handle positions. In some cases some of the lights may be linked to the handle mounted auxiliary contacts while other lights are linked to contacts within the control circuitry in the cabinet. Other configurations are contemplated.

0024Consistent with the above, at least some inventive embodiments include an apparatus for use with a control assembly including a power source and a circuit disconnector located on a first side of a planar member forming an opening, the disconnector including a first mechanical linkage having open and closed positions, the apparatus for manipulating the mechanical linkage between the open and closed positions and visually indicating on a second side of the planar member at least a first state of the control assembly when the first state occurs, the apparatus comprising a handle assembly including a handle member moveable between at least first and second positions and positioned on the second side of the planar member adjacent the opening, an extension member rigidly connected to and extending from the handle member through the opening and forming a second mechanical linkage at a distal end that is linkable with the first mechanical linkage on the first side of the planar member, the extension member moving the first mechanical linkage between the closed and open positions when the handle is moved between the first and second positions, respectively and at least a first light emitter positioned on the second side of the planar member and at least a first contact linkable between the power source and the first light emitter that closes to provide power to the first light emitter when the first state occurs.

0025In addition, some embodiments include a handle assembly for use with a control assembly including a power source and a circuit disconnector located on a first side of a planar member forming an opening, the disconnector including a first mechanical linkage having open and closed positions, the assembly comprising a handle member moveable between at least first and second positions and positioned on the second side of the planar member adjacent the opening, an extension member rigidly connected to and extending from the handle member through the opening and forming a second mechanical linkage at a distal end that is linkable with the first mechanical linkage on the first side of the planar member, the extension member moving the first mechanical linkage between the closed and open positions when the handle is moved between the first and second positions, respectively and at least a first light emitter positioned on the second side of the planar member and including conducting leads that extend from the first side to the second side of the planar member.

0026Moreover, some embodiments include a handle assembly for use with a control assembly including a circuit disconnector located on a first side of a planar member forming an opening, the disconnector including a first mechanical linkage having open and closed positions, the assembly comprising a handle member moveable between at least first and second positions and mounted on the second side of the planar member adjacent the opening, an extension member rigidly connected to and extending from the handle member through the opening and forming a second mechanical linkage at a distal end that is linkable with the first mechanical linkage, the extension member moving the first mechanical linkage between the closed and open positions when the handle is moved between the first and second positions, respectively, a cam at least linkable to the extension member for movement therewith on the first side of the planar member and at least a first contact including a activation member, the first contact closing when the activation member is activated, the cam, extension member and activation member positionable in a first relative juxtaposition with respect to each other such that when the handle member is in one of the first and second positions, the cam activates the activation member and, when the handle member is in the other of the first and second positions, the cam releases the activation member.

0027These and other objects, advantages and aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description. In the description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which there is shown a preferred embodiment of the invention. Such embodiment does not necessarily represent the full scope of the invention and reference is made therefore, to the claims herein for interpreting the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

0028<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a schematic diagram illustrating a prior art breaker block assembly;

0029<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a partial perspective view of the linking portions of a handle and a disconnect shaft as known in the prior art;

0030<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a perspective view of a circuit breaker block including a handle assembly consistent with certain aspects of the present invention;

0031<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a perspective view of the assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, albeit with a cabinet door in an open position;

0032<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a front plan view of the handle assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>;

0033<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a rear plan view of the handle assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>;

0034<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is an exploded view of the handle assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4 and 5</figref>;

0035<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is an exploded view similar to the view of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>, albeit from a different vantage point;

0036<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is a cross-sectional view of the handle assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> taken along the line <b>9</b>—<b>9</b>;

0037<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a cross-sectional view of the handle assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> taken along the line <b>10</b>—<b>10</b>;

0038<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is a cross-sectional view of the handle assembly of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> taken along the line <b>11</b>—<b>11</b>;

0039<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is a plan view of the cam member of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>;

0040<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> is a similar to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, albeit illustrating a second cam member embodiment in a first juxtaposition;

0041<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> is similar to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>, except that the cam member is in a second relative juxtaposition; and

0042<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> is a diagram similar to that illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, albeit showing one handle assembly embodiment consistent with certain aspects of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

0043Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals correspond to similar elements throughout the several views and, more specifically, referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 4</figref>, the present invention will be described in the context of an exemplary breaker block <b>70</b> including a rigid metallic cabinet <b>71</b>, a cabinet door <b>72</b>, a breaker assembly <b>78</b>, a mechanical disconnect assembly <b>99</b> and an inventive handle assembly identified generally by numeral <b>76</b>. Cabinet <b>71</b> is a rectilinear box including a back wall <b>74</b> opposite an open front face. Referring also to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>, three-phase power is provided to cabinet <b>71</b> via three supply lines (not labeled) and three supply lines exit cabinet <b>71</b> and are linked to a load. Breaker assembly <b>78</b>, as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, includes a three-phase circuit breaker <b>416</b> and a power contactor <b>418</b> that are similar to the breaker and contactor described above with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, breaker <b>416</b> includes three breaker switches <b>425</b>, <b>426</b> and <b>458</b> while power contactor <b>418</b> includes a contactor coil <b>444</b> and three power contacts <b>456</b>, <b>450</b> and <b>442</b>. Switch <b>425</b> and contact <b>456</b> are linked in series in a first of the three power phases. Similarly, switch <b>426</b> and contact <b>450</b> are linked in series with the second of the three power phases and switch <b>458</b> and contact <b>442</b> are linked in series with the third of the three power phases. Contacts <b>456</b>, <b>450</b> and <b>442</b> are each normally open contacts.

0044Referring still to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3</figref>, <b>4</b> and <b>15</b>, disconnect assembly <b>99</b> includes a shaft <b>80</b> that extends from breaker <b>416</b> toward door <b>72</b> and is rotatable about its axis of extension to electrically open and close breaker switches <b>425</b>, <b>426</b> and <b>458</b>. An internal or distal end <b>160</b> of a handle assembly extension member <b>100</b> is keyed so as to receive and be linkable to distal end <b>81</b> of shaft <b>80</b>. Herein, in the interest of simplifying this explanation, the specifics with respect to how keyed distal end <b>160</b> links to shaft end <b>81</b> and latches thereto will not be described in detail. It should suffice to say that the cooperating ends <b>160</b> and <b>81</b> latch together in a manner similar to that described above with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> such that when distal end <b>160</b> is rotated, shaft <b>80</b> likewise rotates. In addition, it should be noted that, when shaft <b>80</b> is rotated into a position where breaker switches <b>425</b>, <b>426</b> and <b>458</b> are open, handle assembly <b>76</b> can be manipulated to separate ends <b>160</b> and <b>81</b> so that door <b>72</b> can be opened. Similarly, when shaft <b>80</b> is rotated such that breaker switches <b>425</b>, <b>426</b> and <b>458</b> are closed and power is provided to contactor <b>418</b>, distal end <b>160</b> is latched to end <b>81</b> and handle assembly <b>76</b> cannot be manipulated to de-latch ends <b>160</b> and <b>81</b> until the breaker switches are open.

0045Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, various aspects of the present invention are related to the construction and operation of handle assembly <b>76</b>. In at least some embodiments of the present invention, one inventive aspect of handle assembly <b>76</b> is that one or more light emitters <b>140</b>, <b>142</b>, <b>144</b> and <b>146</b> are provided via the handle assembly <b>76</b> itself. By providing the light emitters via handle assembly <b>76</b>, an esthetically pleasing assembly design results where lights to annunciate handle or breaker block status and the handle mechanism are provided in a relatively compact and elegant package. In addition, by providing the light emitters via handle assembly <b>76</b>, in at least some embodiments of the present invention, only a single hole has to be made in cabinet door <b>72</b> to mount components that previously required several holes. For instance, where four separate lights and one handle are required to configure a breaker block for a specific application, while prior configurations required five separate door holes, one for the handle assembly and a separate hole for each of the lights, in at least some inventive embodiments, a single handle assembly including a handle and four lights can be mounted in a single door hole and electrical leads for all four lights can pass through the single hole along with the handle component that mechanically links to the disconnect assembly shaft <b>80</b>.

0046Moreover, in at least some inventive embodiments a simplified mounting configuration will be employed to mount the inventive handle assembly. For instance, in at least some embodiments a single nut may be provided to secure the entire handle assembly to the door.

0047In addition, referring still to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, in at least some embodiments of the present invention, one or more auxiliary contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b>, <b>114</b>, etc., may be provided as part of the handle assembly <b>76</b> itself that are controllable to transition between closed and open states directly via manipulation of the assembly <b>76</b> as opposed to indirectly through the disconnect assembly <b>99</b>. Here, because handle member <b>90</b> directly controls the state of the auxiliary contacts that comprise part of the handle assembly <b>76</b>, the handle assembly <b>76</b> can be used to transition the states of the contacts independent of whether or not door <b>72</b> is open or closed (i.e., independent of whether or not the handle assembly <b>76</b> is linked or delinked from disconnector shaft <b>80</b> (see again <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>)).

0048With auxiliary contacts that are directly controlled by handle assembly manipulation, various useful control circuits can be configured. For example, referring still to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, even if end <b>160</b> of extension member <b>100</b> is decoupled from shaft <b>80</b> with breaker <b>416</b> switches open, one of the handle assembly auxiliary contacts <b>114</b> may be provided in series with contactor coil <b>444</b> so that, when handle assembly <b>76</b> is manipulated into the ON position, handle assembly <b>76</b> directly closes contact <b>114</b> thereby providing power to coil <b>444</b> despite the fact that breaker <b>416</b> remains open. When power is provided to coil <b>444</b>, contactor contacts <b>456</b>, <b>450</b> and <b>442</b> transition to their closed states. When contactor <b>418</b> transitions between the closed and open states, a distinctive noise recognizable as a transitioning contactor can be heard which can be used to verify that contactor <b>418</b> is operating properly. Similarly, handle assembly <b>76</b> can be manipulated into the OFF position thereby causing contactor <b>114</b> to open cutting off power to coil <b>444</b> and transitioning contactor <b>418</b> between the closed and open states.

0049As another example, in embodiments that include both handle mounted auxiliary contacts and handle mounted lights, one or more auxiliary contacts that change state as a function of handle position, may be linked to one or more of the handle assembly lights so that handle positions are easily visually detectable from various distances. For instance, referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, where a handle assembly <b>76</b> includes ON and OFF positions (see <b>216</b> and <b>212</b>, respectively), one of the contacts <b>114</b> may be configured and positioned to be activated when handle assembly <b>76</b> is in the OFF position and may be wired in series with a red emitting OFF light <b>140</b>. Similarly, a second handle assembly contact <b>112</b> may be configured and positioned to be activated when handle assembly <b>76</b> is in the ON position and may be wired in series with a green emitting ON light <b>142</b>. In the above example, the different colored light emissions will be recognizable from extended distances to indicate handle and breaker block status. Other handle assembly positions (e.g., TRIP—see <b>214</b>, RESET—see <b>210</b>, etc.) may also be annunciated via handle lights.

0050As one other example, where power is provided to coil <b>444</b> through a circuit that does not include handle assembly contacts (e.g., through a separate start-emergency stop button assembly), one or more of the handle assembly lights may be linked in series with coil <b>444</b> to indicate whether or not current is passing through the coil. Many other circuits are contemplated wherein auxiliary contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b>, and <b>114</b> are positioned in series with other assembly components (e.g., trip indicating lights, on/off lights, etc.) and, indeed, where at least one and, in many cases, more than one of the auxiliary contacts may not be linked to other block components.

0051Here it should be noted that, while some inventive embodiments may include both handle assembly lights as well as handle assembly auxiliary contacts, at least some embodiments will include lights and no handle assembly contacts while others will include handle assembly contacts and no handle assembly lights. In cases where the handle assembly does not include lights, the handle assembly contacts may be used in conjunction with other light devices mounted to cabinet door <b>72</b> or otherwise to communicate states/positions. Similarly, in cases where the handle assembly does not include auxiliary contacts, the handle assembly lights may be used in conjunction with other contacts in block <b>70</b> to indicate states.

0052Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5–11</figref>, handle assembly <b>76</b> includes a plurality of components arranged about an assembly axis <b>89</b>. The assembly components include a handle member <b>90</b>, a locking member <b>92</b>, an intermediate member <b>94</b>, a handle base member <b>96</b>, an extension member <b>100</b>, a light module <b>98</b>, a cam member <b>102</b>, a mounting member <b>104</b>, a coupling member in the form of a single nut <b>106</b> and first through fourth auxiliary contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b> and <b>114</b>, respectively.

0053Many of the handle assembly components to be described herein already have relatively complex mechanical structure which operates to facilitate various functions and which is generally well known in the art. Because much of the component structure is well known, much of the detailed structure of the components will not be described in detail. For instance, various structural aspects of handle member <b>90</b>, locking member <b>92</b>, intermediate member <b>94</b>, extension member <b>100</b> and base member <b>96</b> cooperate to limit movement of handle member <b>90</b> to a small number (e.g., 2–4) of positions such as ON and OFF positions and to allow locking member <b>92</b> to be positioned so as to lock handle member <b>90</b> in the OFF position. The structure that limits handle movement and facilitates locking is known and hence will not be described in detail.

0054Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3–11</figref>, handle member <b>90</b> includes a round disk shaped member <b>122</b> and a grip member <b>120</b> that is integrally formed with disk member <b>122</b> and extends to one side thereof. Grip member <b>120</b> forms one pointed end <b>121</b> and an opposite generally rounded end <b>123</b>. Pointed end <b>121</b> aligns with indicia (e.g., ON, OFF, TRIP, etc.) on a front surface <b>124</b> of base member <b>96</b> to indicate handle position. A slot shaped channel <b>125</b> is formed in disk member <b>122</b> and grip member <b>120</b> and a front surface <b>117</b> of grip member <b>120</b> forms a recess <b>113</b> such that slot <b>125</b> opens into recess <b>113</b>.

0055Locking member <b>92</b> is generally a flat rigid member having a receivable components <b>126</b> that, as its label implies, is received within channel <b>125</b> formed by handle member <b>90</b> and that is accessible within recess <b>113</b> when received in slot <b>125</b>. Receivable component <b>126</b> forms an aperture <b>127</b> that extends therethrough. At the proximal end of component <b>126</b>, extension members <b>129</b> and <b>131</b> extend laterally in opposite directions. Extension members <b>129</b> and <b>131</b> limit the extent to which locking member <b>92</b> and, more specifically, component <b>126</b>, is received within slot channel <b>125</b>. A spring (not illustrated) is provided between extension members <b>129</b> and <b>131</b> and oppositely facing surfaces of member <b>90</b> thereby biasing component <b>126</b> into a recessed position with respect to handle member <b>90</b>. As well known in the art, this spring force can be overcome by gripping the portion of member <b>126</b> that is accessible through recess <b>113</b> and pulling member <b>126</b> against the force of the spring until aperture <b>127</b> is observable within recess <b>113</b>. When aperture <b>127</b> is observable, a padlock or the like can be used to lock member <b>92</b> in the extended position.

0056Although not described here in detail, the structure of the handle assembly components is such that locking member <b>92</b> can only be pulled to its locking position when handle member <b>90</b> is in an OFF position and cannot be pulled into its locking position when handle <b>90</b> is in an ON position. In addition, the assembly component structures are such that, when locking member <b>92</b> is in its extended and locking positions, handle member <b>90</b> cannot be rotated from the OFF position (hence the label “locking member”) to the ON or any other position.

0057Intermediate member <b>94</b> includes a slot end <b>97</b> and a distal extending end <b>95</b>. Slot end <b>97</b> is formed to receive the portion of locking member <b>92</b> opposite component <b>126</b> and to enable sliding motion thereof along the assembly axis <b>89</b>. Distal end <b>95</b> extends opposite slot end <b>97</b>.

0058Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7 through 10</figref>, extension member <b>100</b> includes a proximal end <b>161</b> and a distal end <b>160</b>. Proximal end <b>161</b> receives end <b>95</b> of intermediate member <b>94</b> and links thereto in a manner known in the art. Proximal end <b>161</b> forms a flange <b>87</b> that extends laterally to a greater radius than other parts of member <b>100</b>. Distal end <b>160</b> includes an external surface that is at least in part threaded. Intermediate flange <b>87</b> and the threaded surface proximate end <b>160</b>, member <b>100</b> forms two laterally extending ribs <b>163</b> and <b>165</b> that extend in opposite directions laterally from the main section of member <b>100</b>. Ribs <b>163</b> and <b>165</b> are provided to lock with recesses <b>179</b> and <b>186</b> in cam member <b>102</b> to be described in greater detail below.

0059Base member <b>96</b> is a rigid generally rectilinear member having a front surface <b>124</b> and an oppositely facing rear surface <b>134</b>. Member <b>96</b> forms a central circular opening generally identified by numeral <b>128</b> and forms various structural components within opening <b>128</b> that operate with mechanical features of locking member <b>92</b>, intermediate member <b>94</b> and extension member <b>100</b> to restrict handle <b>90</b> movement to only certain positions and to facilitate the locking functionality described above. In at least some embodiments of the present invention, as best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, indicia is provided on front surface <b>124</b> that is juxtaposed with respect to structure <b>130</b> in opening <b>128</b> such that the indicia is aligned with pointed end <b>121</b> of handle member <b>90</b> when handle assembly <b>76</b> is in a position associated with the specific indicia. For instance, exemplary indicia in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> include “OFF” indication <b>212</b> and “ON” indication <b>216</b>. When pointed end <b>121</b> of member <b>90</b> is aligned with ON indication <b>216</b>, handle assembly <b>76</b> is in an ON position such that, if shaft <b>80</b> is linked thereto via distal end <b>160</b> of extension member <b>100</b>, shaft <b>80</b> is likewise in an ON position. Similarly, when pointed end <b>121</b> is aligned with OFF indication <b>212</b> and shaft <b>80</b> is linked to extension member <b>100</b> for rotation therewith, shaft <b>80</b> is likewise in the OFF position.

0060Light module <b>98</b> includes a generally square plate member <b>138</b> that has a rib <b>136</b> around its circumference and that forms a central circular hole <b>150</b> sized to pass distal end <b>160</b> of extension member <b>100</b>. Rib <b>136</b> and plate <b>138</b> generally form a cavity <b>137</b> for receiving the rear surface <b>134</b> of base member <b>96</b>. Lights <b>140</b>, <b>142</b>, <b>144</b> and <b>146</b> are provided in rib <b>136</b>. The lights may take any of several different forms including incandescent light bulbs, LEDs, etc., and may be provided in any of several different arrangements including a single light, multiple lights along one edge of rib <b>136</b>, lights along opposite edges of rib <b>136</b>, etc. In the illustrated embodiment a separate light is provided in each of the four rib edges. While each of the lights may emit the same color light, in at least some embodiments it is contemplated that each light may emit a different color light (e.g., red, green, yellow, blue, etc.) where each color would be associated or associable with a different handle assembly state or a different state of the breaker assembly <b>70</b>.

0061Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> and also to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>, an eight pin electrical port <b>158</b> is formed in a rear surface <b>152</b> just below opening <b>150</b>. A separate pair of electrical conductors or leads <b>230</b> (only one shown) extends from port <b>158</b> to each of lights <b>140</b>, <b>142</b>, <b>144</b> and <b>146</b>. In the illustrated embodiment leads <b>230</b> are potted within plate member <b>138</b> although other accommodating configurations are contemplated. Referring still to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, two aligning pegs <b>154</b> and <b>156</b> extend perpendicular to rear surface <b>152</b> of light module <b>98</b>. Pegs <b>154</b> and <b>156</b> are received within holes formed in door <b>72</b> to facilitate alignment of components on the inside and the outside of the door <b>72</b>.

0062Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7 through 11</figref>, door <b>72</b> forms an opening <b>170</b> through which distal end <b>160</b> of extension member <b>100</b> extends. An eight pin male connector (see <b>196</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>) that extends from mounting member <b>104</b> also extends through opening <b>170</b>. Aligning holes <b>211</b> are provided on opposite sides of opening <b>170</b> which receive pegs <b>154</b> and <b>156</b> to align handle assembly components on both internal door surface <b>84</b> and external door surface <b>82</b>.

0063Referring still to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7 and 8</figref> and also to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, cam member <b>102</b> is a disk shaped member forming a central circular opening <b>183</b>. Two laterally extending recesses <b>184</b> and <b>186</b> are formed in opening <b>183</b> that are generally of small arc and that open in opposite directions from recess <b>183</b>. Recesses <b>184</b> and <b>186</b> are sized, dimensioned and juxtaposed such that when distal end <b>160</b> of extension member <b>100</b> extends through opening <b>183</b>, ribs <b>163</b> and <b>165</b> are journalled within recesses <b>184</b> and <b>185</b>, respectively, so that, when extension member <b>100</b> is rotated about assembly axis <b>89</b>, cam member <b>102</b> similarly rotates.

0064A radial slot <b>185</b> is formed to one side of opening <b>183</b> to pass male connector <b>196</b> that extend from mounting member <b>104</b> so that the distal end of the connector <b>196</b> can be linked to port <b>158</b> in the rear surface <b>152</b> of light module <b>98</b>. Slot <b>185</b> is dimensioned so that connector <b>196</b> passes therethrough independent of the rotational position of cam member <b>102</b> with respect to assembly axis <b>89</b>. Thus, in at least some embodiments, slot <b>185</b> will extend about an arc of 140°–150°.

0065Cam <b>102</b> includes two cam extensions <b>180</b> and <b>182</b> that extend from a rear cam surface <b>179</b>. Each extension <b>180</b> and <b>182</b> extends from an edge of cam <b>102</b> toward opening <b>183</b> and are radially positioned with respect to recesses <b>184</b> and <b>186</b> such that the cam extensions <b>180</b> and <b>182</b> contact and depress activation members (e.g., <b>260</b> and <b>262</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>) on contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b> and <b>114</b> when the cam <b>102</b> is in specific positions. The cooperative activity between extensions <b>180</b> and <b>182</b> and the activation members will be described in more detail below.

0066Mounting member <b>104</b> includes a generally square plate member <b>194</b> and a rib <b>192</b> that extends around the edge of plate member <b>194</b> so that plate member <b>194</b> and rib <b>192</b> form a shallow cavity <b>195</b>. Plate <b>194</b> includes front and rear surfaces <b>194</b> and <b>198</b>, respectively, and forms a central circular opening <b>190</b> suitably dimensioned to pass the threaded end of extension member <b>100</b>. Plate <b>194</b> also forms four square shaped apertures <b>210</b>, <b>212</b>, <b>214</b> and <b>216</b> for passing contact activation buttons or members (e.g., <b>260</b>, <b>262</b>, etc.), a separate pair of the apertures <b>210</b>, <b>212</b>, <b>214</b> and <b>216</b> formed on each side of assembly axis <b>89</b>.

0067Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7 and 10</figref>, a male electrical connector <b>196</b> extend from plate <b>194</b> within cavity <b>195</b>. Connector <b>196</b> is positioned such that the connector extend through cam slot <b>185</b> when cam <b>102</b> and mounting member are adjacent and aligned with axis <b>89</b>. Connector <b>196</b> has a length dimension such that distal end thereof is receivable within port <b>158</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 8 and 10</figref>) upon assembly of handle assembly <b>76</b>.

0068Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 10</figref>, four pairs of connection terminals <b>600</b>, <b>602</b>, <b>604</b> and <b>606</b> are provided near the lower and upper edges of rear surface <b>198</b> of mounting member <b>104</b>. The terminals are electrically linked with 8-pin male connector <b>196</b> (see also <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>) via leads <b>232</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, leads <b>232</b> are potted within plate <b>198</b> although other accommodating configurations are contemplated. Referring also to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7 and 8</figref>, when connector <b>196</b> is received in port <b>158</b>, lights <b>140</b>, <b>142</b>, <b>144</b> and <b>146</b> are electrically linked to terminal pairs <b>600</b>, <b>602</b>, <b>604</b> and <b>606</b>, respectively.

0069Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7 through 11</figref>, nut <b>106</b> forms a threaded aperture <b>202</b> dimensioned to be threadably receivable on distal end <b>160</b> of extension member <b>100</b>. Each of contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b> and <b>114</b> is a normally closed contact although in some embodiments one or more normally open contacts may be provided. Each of contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b> and <b>114</b> is mechanically activated to change state by depression of an associated push button type activation member. For instance, contact <b>108</b> includes a push button <b>260</b> that, when pressed, causes contact <b>108</b> to close and, when released, allows contact <b>108</b> to again open. Activation members for contacts <b>110</b>, <b>112</b>, and <b>114</b> are identified by numerals <b>262</b>, <b>264</b> and <b>266</b>, respectively. The activation members have length dimensions such that they extend through apertures <b>210</b>, <b>212</b>, <b>214</b> and <b>216</b> formed in plate <b>198</b> and into cavity <b>195</b> (see again <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>) when the contacts are mounted to rear surface <b>198</b>. Referring again to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, when one of the cam extensions <b>180</b> or <b>182</b> is aligned with one of the activation members <b>210</b>, <b>212</b>, <b>214</b> or <b>216</b>, the cam extension contacts and depresses or activates the activation member thereby causing the associated contact to transition to the closed state.

0070Referring again to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4</figref>, <b>5</b> and <b>15</b>, the handle assembly components are configured such that, when assembly <b>76</b> is linked to shaft <b>80</b>, handle member <b>90</b> is rotatable through 90° of rotation between an ON position in which circuit breaker switches <b>425</b>, <b>426</b> and <b>458</b> are closed and an OFF position in which switches <b>425</b>, <b>426</b> and <b>458</b> are open. In addition, when breaker <b>416</b> is tripped and automatically opened, handle member <b>90</b> is rotated 30° counter-clockwise from the ON position. After the breaker trips, an operator is required to reset the breaker assembly prior to moving handle 90° to the ON position by rotating handle approximately 80° counter-clockwise (i.e., approximately 20° past the OFF handle position) into the RESET position.

0071In the illustrated embodiment, referring also to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7</figref>, <b>8</b> and <b>12</b>, when cam <b>102</b> is journalled to extension member <b>100</b> for rotation therewith and the other assembly <b>76</b> components are assembled, cam extension <b>180</b> is aligned with contact activation member <b>264</b> (the activation members illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> as cross-hatched squares) when handle <b>90</b> is in the OFF position. When handle member <b>90</b> is rotated counter-clockwise to the RESET position, cam extension <b>182</b> contacts and activates activation member <b>262</b>.

0072In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, the rear surface of cam member <b>102</b> is illustrated. When viewing the rear surface of cam <b>102</b> the frame of reference is opposite that of handle assembly <b>76</b> as viewed in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> (i.e., when handle member <b>90</b> is rotated counter-clockwise in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, the rear surface of cam <b>102</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> rotates clockwise and vice versa). Thus, when handle member <b>90</b> is rotated counter-clockwise 20° to the RESET position in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, cam member <b>102</b> rotates 20° clockwise so that extension <b>182</b> is aligned with arrow <b>506</b> and activates activation button <b>262</b>. Similarly, when handle <b>90</b> is rotated to the ON position, cam extension <b>180</b> is aligned with arrow <b>504</b> and activates activation member <b>266</b> and when handle member <b>90</b> is in the TRIP position, cam <b>182</b> is aligned with arrow <b>508</b> and activates activation member <b>260</b>.

0073Referring again to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7 through 12</figref>, handle assembly <b>76</b> is assembled about assembly axis <b>89</b> as follows. Extension component <b>126</b> is received within slot <b>125</b> of handle member <b>90</b> and the opposite end of locking member <b>92</b> is received by the slot end <b>97</b> of intermediate member <b>94</b>. End <b>95</b> of intermediate member <b>94</b> is received by end <b>161</b> of extension member <b>100</b>. End <b>160</b> of extension member <b>100</b> is received through opening <b>128</b> of base member <b>96</b>. Base member <b>96</b> is aligned with cavity <b>137</b> formed by light module <b>98</b> and rear surface <b>134</b> of base member <b>96</b> is received within cavity <b>137</b>. Light module <b>98</b> is aligned with opening <b>170</b> and such that pegs <b>154</b> and <b>156</b> are aligned with alignment apertures <b>211</b> and module <b>98</b> is held against the external surface <b>82</b> of door <b>72</b>.

0074Continuing, with distal end <b>160</b> of extension member <b>100</b> extending through opening <b>170</b>, cam member <b>102</b> is aligned with end <b>160</b> and slid thereon such that ribs <b>163</b> and <b>165</b> (see again <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>) are journalled within recesses <b>184</b> and <b>186</b>, respectively. Mounting member <b>104</b> is positioned such that the distal end <b>160</b> of extension member <b>100</b> is aligned with opening <b>190</b> and is moved toward internal surface <b>84</b> of door <b>72</b> such that end <b>160</b> passes through opening <b>190</b>. Here, distal ends of pegs <b>154</b> and <b>156</b> are receivable within corners formed by rib <b>192</b> and therefore help align mounting member <b>104</b> with module <b>154</b> despite the fact that those components are on opposite sides of door <b>72</b>. When module <b>104</b> is properly positioned, male connector <b>196</b> extends through slot <b>185</b> (see again <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>) and are received within port <b>158</b> such that terminals <b>600</b>, <b>602</b>, <b>604</b> and <b>606</b> are electrically linked to light <b>140</b>, <b>142</b>, <b>144</b> and <b>146</b> as described above.

0075Nut <b>106</b> is threadably received on distal end <b>160</b> of extension member <b>100</b> and bears against the rear surface <b>198</b> of member <b>104</b> thereby holding all of the handle assembly components together. Contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b> and <b>114</b> are mounted to rear surface <b>198</b> of mounting member <b>104</b> such that activation members (i.e., the push buttons) <b>260</b>, <b>262</b>, <b>264</b> and <b>266</b> extend through apertures <b>214</b>, <b>216</b>, <b>210</b> and <b>212</b> in mounting member <b>104</b>.

0076While the assembly components described above are described as being assembled in a certain order, it should be appreciated that some of the components may be pre-assembled into subassemblies prior to final assembly. For instance, contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b> and <b>114</b> would likely be pre-mounted to member <b>104</b> prior to final assembly. In addition, members <b>90</b>, <b>92</b>, <b>94</b>, <b>100</b> and <b>96</b> and module <b>98</b> may be pre-assembled prior to final assembly. Moreover, module <b>98</b> may be separate from the pre-assembled subassembly including members <b>90</b>, <b>92</b>, <b>94</b>, <b>100</b> and <b>96</b>.

0077Importantly, with the assembly described above, the components can be electrically linked in various ways to perform various functions. For instance, any of the lights <b>140</b>, <b>142</b>, <b>144</b> and <b>146</b> may be linked in series with any contacts (none illustrated) located within cabinet <b>71</b> to visually annunciate the status of the contact during system operation. In addition, any of the lights or a subset thereof may be linked in series with any of the handle mounted auxiliary contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b> or <b>114</b> to visually annunciate (i.e., illuminate an associated light) the status of the handle assembly <b>76</b>. For instance, referring again to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4</figref>, <b>6</b> and <b>15</b>, contact <b>112</b> may be linked in series with a low voltage power source and light <b>144</b> via terminal pair <b>604</b>. Here, because contact <b>112</b> is normally open, when handle member <b>90</b> and hence cam <b>102</b> are in the OFF position (see cam <b>102</b> position in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>), contact <b>112</b> provides power to light <b>144</b> and visually annunciates that handle <b>90</b> is in the OFF position. When handle member <b>90</b> and cam <b>102</b> are rotated from the OFF position, cam extension <b>180</b> releases member <b>264</b> and contact <b>112</b> opens to turn off light <b>144</b>.

0078Referring still to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5</figref>, <b>6</b> and <b>15</b>, contact <b>114</b> may be linked in series with light <b>140</b> via terminal pair <b>600</b>. Here referring also to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, when cam <b>102</b> and handle member <b>90</b> are rotated to the ON position, cam extension <b>180</b> activates member <b>266</b> (see arrow <b>504</b>) to close contact <b>114</b> and illuminate light <b>140</b> to indicate the ON handle position. Similarly, contact <b>110</b> may be linked in series with light <b>146</b> via terminal pair <b>606</b> so that when cam <b>102</b> and handle <b>90</b> are rotated to the RESET position, cam extension <b>182</b> activates member <b>262</b> (see arrow <b>506</b>) to close contact <b>110</b> and illuminate light <b>146</b> indicating the RESET handle position. Moreover, contact <b>108</b> may be linked in series with light <b>142</b> via terminal pair <b>602</b> so that when cam <b>102</b> and handle member <b>90</b> are in the tripped position, cam extension <b>182</b> activates member <b>260</b> (see arrow <b>508</b>) to close contact <b>108</b> and illuminate light <b>142</b> to indicate the handle TRIP position.

0079In the above example, while each of the contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b> and <b>114</b> may be linked to separate lights <b>140</b>, <b>142</b>, <b>144</b> and <b>146</b>, in at least some cases only a subset of the linkages maybe made. For instance in some cases only ON and OFF lights <b>140</b> and <b>144</b> may be linked to contacts. Where only a subset of the contacts are linked to lights, the other contacts may be linked to other components within cabinet <b>71</b>. In addition, in some cases two or more of the handle lights may be linked in series with a single one of the contacts. For instance, contact <b>108</b> may be linked in series with all of lights <b>140</b>, <b>142</b>, <b>144</b> and <b>146</b> so that all of the lights are illuminated when a TRIP condition occurs.

0080In at least some embodiments it is contemplated that the contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b> and <b>114</b> may be pre-wired to specific terminal pairs or indeed directly to specific pins on connector <b>196</b> so that the contact functions cannot be altered. Here, versatility in assembly <b>76</b> functionality may still be achievable by providing two or more swappable cam members <b>102</b> where the different cam members have different cam extension characteristics. For instance, while a first cam member may have the characteristics illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, a second cam member (not illustrated) may only include cam extension <b>180</b> and may not include extension <b>182</b>. Here, when the first cam <b>102</b> is employed the handle assembly would be capable of illuminating a different handle light for each of the ON, OFF, TRIP, and RESET positions. However, when the second cam is employed the handle assembly would only be capable of illuminating separate handle lights for the ON and OFF positions.

0081In other embodiments a single cam member may be securable to extension member <b>100</b> in two or more relative juxtapositions where the cam extension configuration operates differently in the different juxtapositions. For instance, in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> a different cam member <b>300</b> is illustrated which includes only a single cam extension <b>330</b> but that forms two pairs of recesses in a central opening <b>332</b>. The first pair <b>322</b> and <b>323</b> are arranged with respect to cam extension <b>330</b> such that, when ribs <b>163</b> and <b>165</b> on member <b>100</b> are journalled therein, cam extension <b>330</b> operates in a fashion similar to that described above with respect to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> to activate members <b>264</b> and <b>266</b> when the handle member <b>90</b> is in the OFF (illustrated) and ON (see arrow <b>289</b>) positions, respectively. In addition, when ribs <b>163</b> and <b>165</b> are journalled in recesses <b>322</b> and <b>323</b>, no cam extensions interact with activation members <b>260</b> and <b>262</b> in any of the handle positions.

0082The second recess pair <b>320</b> and <b>321</b> are angularly offset from pair <b>322</b> and <b>323</b> and are juxtaposed with respect to cam extension <b>330</b> such that when ribs <b>163</b> and <b>165</b> are journalled in recesses <b>322</b> and <b>323</b>, respectively, as illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>, cam extension <b>330</b> is aligned between activation members <b>260</b> and <b>262</b>. Here, cam extension <b>330</b> activates member <b>260</b> when handle member <b>90</b> is in the TRIP position (i.e., when extension <b>330</b> is aligned with arrow <b>352</b>) and activates member <b>262</b> when handle member <b>90</b> is in the RESET (i.e., when extension <b>330</b> is aligned with arrow <b>350</b>). Here, when ribs <b>163</b> and <b>165</b> are journalled in recesses <b>320</b> and <b>321</b>, no cam extensions interact with activation members <b>264</b> and <b>266</b> in any of the handle positions.

0083At this point it should be appreciated that a unique exemplary hardware configuration has been described that includes several cooperating components. However, it should also be understood that other similar configurations are contemplated. For instance, while the assembly <b>76</b> above includes four contacts <b>108</b>, <b>110</b>, <b>112</b> and <b>114</b>, it should be appreciated that assemblies with fewer and greater numbers of contacts are contemplated. Also, in some cases all or a subset of the handle assembly contacts may be provided outside cabinet <b>71</b>. Moreover, more or less than four lights may be included in the handle assembly <b>76</b>. In addition, in some cases the light module <b>98</b> may be replaced with lights on the handle member <b>90</b> or in the base member <b>96</b>.

0084Furthermore, embodiments including more than two swappable cam members are contemplated where each of the cam members has different camming characteristics such that an extremely versatile handle assembly results. In addition, while an embodiment having a swappable cam is described above, other embodiments are contemplated where mounting members <b>96</b> are swappable to provide similar variable functionality by altering the relative juxtapositions of cam extensions and the contact activation members.

0085Moreover, embodiments are also contemplated where a single mounting member <b>96</b> and associated contacts may be positionable in more than one relative juxtaposition with respect to the base member <b>96</b> so as to alter the juxtapositions of contact activation members and the cam extensions and hence alter functionality. In addition, in at least some embodiments, the cam member may be eliminated and the cam extension(s) may be provided as an integral part(s) of the extension member <b>100</b>. In cases where the handle assembly does not include auxiliary contacts, the cam member <b>102</b> may be completely eliminated.

0086From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous modifications and variations can be effected without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concept of the present invention. It will be appreciated that the present disclosure is intended as an exemplification of the invention, and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiment illustrated. The disclosure is intended to cover by the appended claims all such modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.

0087To apprise the public of the scope of this invention, the following claims are made: